Job Information
Center For Independence Independent Living Specialist - Montrose Region in Montrose, Colorado
The primary role of an IL Specialist is to provide training, support, goal setting, advocacy, information and referral, and Independent Living services for Individuals with disabilities so they can achieve or maintain independent living in the community. During the intake, this position helps determine if CFI services are appropriate for the potential consumer or provide necessary information about community resources. This position will help individuals with disabilities apply for public assistance and will follow up with family members, other human service providers, government departments, vendors, and all consumers of the Center for Independence. Record keeping, data collection, and reporting regarding is also an essential part of this position.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES
Act as the representative of the Center for Independence at community events and meetings, as well as directing staff, when appropriate, to represent on occasion During the intake this position helps determine if CFI services are appropriate for the potential consumer or provide necessary information and referrals to community resources. Adhere to state and federal contract compliance guidelines for program delivery and time and effort standards. Provide consumers and community members with information and referrals. Document interactions with consumers, groups and other activities appropriately in Cil Suite database. Follow policies and confidentiality protocols to safeguard PII, Consumer Service Record data, and information. Maintain accurate records of expenditures of time and money and deliver timely reports as required Broad understanding of community resources and be able to provide Information and Referrals to individuals and community. Assist consumers to set and achieve independent living goals and provide support and resources as needed Maintain contact with active consumers every 90 days. Assist with facilitation of peer support groups that allow individuals to share common experiences and peer advocacy Attend all staff meetings and attend trainings as requested Complete paperwork, files, and any ongoing reports as needed Coordinate resources with other Independent Living Specialists High level Knowledge of comprehensive Independent Living Plans Maintain certifications, if appropriate, for vendor delivery of services Maintain strict confidentiality of all PII and information concerning consumers, staff, volunteers and board members Operate a motor vehicle to travel to designated appointments Promote self-advocacy by teaching individuals how to access services, assert their rights, obtain funding and attain their goals Develop and maintain appropriate collaborative relationships with other organizations/services providers to enhance the goals of independent living. Provide oversight and individual services to consumers including information and referral, advocacy, peer support, employment/career counseling and Independent Living Skills Training Understanding of proper intake procedures for procedures of IL services Perform other related duties as required/requested Provide assistance, training, and knowledge to low vision/blind consumers, and consumers' family members Provide Information and Referral (I&R) for visually impaired individuals via phone and walk-ins for internal services and/or referral to external agencies for programs and services
QUALIFICATIONS / REQUIREMENTS General qualifications and abilities for this position include, but are not limited to: High School/GED diploma A minimum of 2 years of experience in the Human Services field Able to meet deadlines in a fast paced and high stress environment Must be able to pass Colorado background check with a fingerprint screening. Must be able to pass the Federal background check for access to confidential records. Work with minimal supervision and take initiative to complete work assignments Proficiency with MS Office suite, particularly Word, Outlook, and Excel Experience with record keeping, data collection, and reporting Excellent organizational and time management skills Ability to learn other software programs Possess working knowledge of area's social/government/non-profit resources Excellent written and verbal communication skills Ability to be resourceful and proactive in dealing with issues that may arise Ability to maintain professionalism and confidentiality in sensitive, complex, and/or controversial situations Positive and friendly manner
Preferred requirements sought are: Bachelor's degree in a human service-related field (counseling, vocational rehabilitation, social work, psychology, etc.) or a combination of education and related work/lived experience Familiarity with independent living philosophy Recent experience working in a non-profit environment Personal experience with the disability community Bilingual in: American Sign Language and/or Spanish strongly Familiarity with ADA criteria and Independent Living Concepts Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS / WORK ENVIRONMENT
To successfully perform the essential functions of this job, the employee needs to be able to perform the following physical demands. Reasonable accommodation may be provided to enable a qualified candidate with a disability to perform the essential functions of the job.